The Wascana Winter Festival will return to Regina this weekend, celebrating its 50th anniversary with a mix of indoor and outdoor programming.
Wascana Winter Festival
Formerly known as Waskimo, the event is recognized as the longest-running winter festival in the city. Returning this Damily Day weekend, the festival features a diverse lineup of activities highlighting art, culture, and recreation.
What to Expect
The festival will feature art exhibitions, musical performances, historical presentations, and outdoor activities for all ages. Activities are designed for all ages, with events taking place both outdoors in Wascana Centre and indoors at partner venues across Regina.
- Family-oriented programming will include sleigh rides, snow yoga, snow cricket, public skating and groomed cross-country ski trails.
- Saskatchewan Rugby will host a winter tournament for the inaugural 50th Anniversary Cup. Tours of the Legislative Building will also be available according to its regular public schedule.
- A central gathering point will be the large festival tent near the Legislative Building, where cultural performances, readings and live music will take place throughout Family Day. Several events are free, ensuring accessibility for the community.
What’s New and What to See & Do
Several performances and partnerships have been added for the anniversary year.
- One featured event is an Indigenous storytelling session by Calvin Racette on February 12 at 1:15 p.m. at the University of Regina multipurpose room. Racette, a retired educator and Métis historian, previously worked with the Gabriel Dumont Institute and First Nations University of Canada. His presentation will combine traditional narratives with reflections from his teaching career.
- Music programming includes a February 13 performance by “On Cue” at Westminster United Church at 7:00 p.m., showcasing local artists. On February 14 at 1:30 p.m., “Craig’s Concert” will take place in the main rotunda of the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre, intended to reach audiences who may not regularly attend community venues.
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- The Regina Jazz Society will host a Sweetheart Auction and Concert on February 14 at 6:00 p.m. at the Serb Club in Avonhurst Mall. On February 15 at 3:30 p.m., the South Saskatchewan Youth Orchestra will present a winter concert at Holy Rosary Cathedral.
Wascana Winter Festival
- Family Day programming on February 16 begins at 10:15 a.m. under the main tent, led by the Regina Multicultural Council.
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- Scheduled performers include readings by Claudia White Hawk and Calvin Racette from 1:10 to 1:40 p.m., followed by presentations organized by the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild featuring Poet Laureate Bruce Rice and author Alison Lohans.
- Children’s entertainment will include magician Kegan from 2:15 to 2:45 p.m. and Gene Packwood from 2:45 to 3:10 p.m.
- A chai tea break and anniversary cake service will follow at 3:15 p.m., supported by Dosa & Curry Garden Restaurant.
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- Live music continues into the afternoon with a Regina jazz duet led by Peter Champagne and a performance by Alejandra Coronel Lozano featuring Mexican songs.
- A commemorative Outhouse Racer-themed photo booth, sponsored by Westridge Construction Ltd., will operate from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on February 16 in front of the Legislative Building. The installation references a historic Waskimo tradition.
Where is the Event?
Events are centred in Wascana Centre, including programming on the frozen lake and in front of the Legislative Building. Additional venues include the University of Regina campus, Westminster United Church, Holy Rosary Cathedral, the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre and the Serb Club at Avonhurst Mall.
Free public parking is available throughout Wascana Park. Visitors are asked to park only in designated areas. With large crowds expected, it is preferred that visitors use public transit, park off-site, carpool, or walk in.
When is the Event?
The festival will take place from February 12 to 21, 2026. Key events are spread throughout the week, with activities suitable for individuals, families, and newcomers to the community. Major Family Day events will occur on Monday, February 16.
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What is the Cost?
Many events, including concerts, exhibitions, and historical presentations, are free to attend. The tickets for the Regina Jazz Society Dessert Auction fundraiser will cost $15 to $20.
Take in the festive atmosphere, enjoy the food and hot drinks, and enjoy the day.